Minutes - Council - 03/30/2020 - Emergency

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equipment, they are touching equipment used by previous visitors that could be carrying the virus without knowing. He stated that if the playgrounds are kept open, the risk information should be on the sign to alert residents that the equipment could be contaminated. Mayor LeTourneau asked if there is any liability exposure. City Attorney Langel replied that the City or hospital cannot guarantee that a person would not be exposed, as the virus spreads by people that are not even aware they are carrying the virus. He stated that the best the City could do is to strike a balance between getting the community outdoors versus creating a place that could spread infection. Councilmember Musgrove stated that she has the feeling that this could be viewed as a double message, encouraging residents to get outdoors but to also maintain six feet of distance, which would be difficult on playground equipment. She asked what the signs would say. City Administrator Ulrich provided input on the recommended language from the League of Minnesota Cities. He noted that City staff could work with the City Attorney to develop the exact language. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated that the current signs state that the playgrounds are closed but the other elements (trails, fields, and courts) are open. Councilmember Musgrove stated that she likes the idea of keeping the signage in place, which allows people to have a greater amount of mobility but minimizing the risk. Councilmember Menth asked if the playground equipment is currently open. City Administrator Ulrich replied that the playgrounds are currently not open, and the discussion is whether to allow the playgrounds to open but place additional advisory signage or to keep the playgrounds closed. Councilmember Menth stated that he would support opening the playground equipment with the advisory signage. He stated that would leave the choice to the resident and user. Councilmember Specht stated that he would also agree to opening the parks and leaving the choice to the resident. Councilmember Riley agreed that the playgrounds should be open with an advisory sign. Councilmember Kuzma stated that he understands the opportunity for kids to play but his experience is that people do not read signs and he would rather stay on the safe side and keep the playgrounds closed. Mayor LeTourneau commented that four members of the Council support opening the playgrounds with advisory signage. He stated that while he would prefer to keep the playgrounds closed, he can support opening the playgrounds with advisory signage. He asked City Council/March 30, 2020 Page 6 of 9